Rachal named AFL defender of the week

How big was Traco Rachal's final-play interception in last week's win over New Orleans? Well, on Tuesday the Storm DB was named AFL Defensive Player of the Week.

Actually, Rachal made more than one big play in the game. The Texas A&M-Commerce alum registered a week 11-high 12.5 tackles and had a pass breakup, too.

But it was his pick that undoubtedly led to him receiving this award. On fourth-and-goal from the Storm 9, Rachal jumped high into the air in the corner of the endzone to make the crucial pick of a Danny Wimprine pass. The play just might have saved the Storm's season (we'll know for sure in a few weeks).

-- KEITH NIEBUHR